It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Francesco Labianca, 85, on November 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Giovinazzo, Bari, Italy to Vincenzo and Antonia Labianca, Frank immigrated to Hamilton, Ontario in the late 1950's. Devoted husband of 59 years to Teresa, and cherised father to Vince and Angela; he is reunited in peace with his beloved daughter Antonia. Loving nonno to Maria Kristina Markova, Dante and Isabella Romano, delighted great-grandfather to Freya and Iris Markova, and loving father-in-law to Michael Romano.

Frank had a zest for life, and will always be remembered as a warm-hearted, social, and an outgoing individual. During his retirement from Stelco, he loved spending time with his grandchildren and was very proud of their accomplishments. Frank enjoyed socializing with his friends and playing cards at the Chedoke Bocce Club. He took pleasure in attending dinner dances, where he could show off his dancing skills.

Frank's passion for soccer led him to become a coach to his son's soccer team and eventually a referee. The memory of him leaving in his uniform with all his gear on and returning home with a sunburnt scalp and incident reports to fill out, will forever remain in our memories. After giving red and yellow cards to the players, Frank would always take the time to explain what mistakes they made on the field. He was overjoyed when he encountered people he coached or refereed over the years.

Frank was also a loyal fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Hockey Night in Canada was always an eventful evening at the Labianca residence. It always started and ended with him yelling at the television. His constant disappointment in the Leafs drove him to purchase season tickets to the Hamilton Bulldogs. Overall, Frank was passionate about all sports that he could participate in verbally.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to all the doctors and nurses from the Hamilton General Hospital, for their efforts and care during his final days. A special thanks to all the staff at Darts for their patience and care.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.